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Black History Month 2026 Marks a Historic Milestone for the Tri-Municipal Region
Tri-Municipal residents and leaders came together to celebrate Black history, culture, and achievements this February 2026.
Candlelight Stories 2026/ ABDL
February 2026 was a historic moment for the Tri-Municipal region. Residents across Spruce Grove, Stony Plain, and Parkland County came together to experience Black history, culture, and stories in vibrant, meaningful ways. From the region’s first public civic proclamations to a sold-out storytelling event, the month brought history to life, united community leaders, gave youth a stage to shine, and created a space for reflection, connection, and celebration.
Through the leadership of Africentric Arts, Black Legacy & Cultural Kinship Society Parkland (B.L.A.C.K.S Parkland), and the City of Spruce Grove, Black History Month 2026 became a landmark moment for the region. Together, these organizations united the community around a shared goal: celebrating Black history and culture while highlighting the contributions of Black Canadians in visible and meaningful ways.
The month began on February 2, 2026, when Mayor Jeff Acker officially proclaimed February as Black History Month at Spruce Grove City Hall. The city’s first public recognition of the month brought together youth, families, community leaders, and local organizations from across the Tri-Municipal region and Edmonton. Civic leaders emphasized the importance of inclusion, diversity, and recognizing the contributions of Black Canadians to regional life, while also acknowledging ongoing challenges and reaffirming a commitment to supporting underrepresented communities.
The celebration continued on February 20, 2026, with the sold-out Candlelight Stories event at the Black Box Theatre. Families, youth, and community members from Spruce Grove, Stony Plain, Parkland County, and Edmonton filled the theatre for an evening of storytelling, music, drumming, dance, and visual art. The event brought Black history and culture to life, creating an immersive space for learning, reflection, and joy.
Candlelight Stories drew an impressive array of civic and community leaders, highlighting the event’s regional significance. Attendees included Mayor Jeff Acker and Spruce Grove councillors, Councillor Eric Meyer of Stony Plain, David Shepherd, MLA for Edmonton-City Centre and keynote speaker, Lorne Dach, MLA for Edmonton-McClung, and Okwuchi Nnani, Director of Stakeholder Relations for the Office of the Premier of Alberta. Leadership from education and community organizations, including Dr. Lorraine Stewart, Board Chair of Parkland School Division and President of the Public-School Boards’ Association of Alberta, and Samuel Juru of the Edmonton Newcomer Centre, also participated. Local faith leaders, Pastor Rod Charles of Spruce Grove’s Bethel Apostolic Church and Pastor Clive Atkinson of Edmonton’s Higher Ground Tabernacle Ministry, underscored the broad community support for cultural celebration and storytelling.
The event came to life thanks to the generous support of financial and community partners, including the City of Spruce Grove, Town of Stony Plain, Green Bloom Media, Computer Insights, Rise Up Massage & Wellness, That Yoga Place, Khasa Foundation, Spruce Grove Public Library, Raven Wolf Brewing Co. Ltd., Dyronn’s Kitchen, Bethel Apostolic Church of Stony Plain, Arts with Ola and Bolga Boutique.
Candlelight Stories also highlighted the talent of local artists and performers. The Uganda Cultural Group (UCAS/ADPA), Dester Band, pianist Acacia Kabba, singers Chrisly Creations and Maria Charles, and poet Francess Cowan brought energy, creativity, and storytelling to the stage, captivating the audience and making the celebration unforgettable.
Black History Month 2026 intentionally showcased the lasting contributions of Black Canadians to culture, identity, advocacy, business, art, justice, and sport. The events created meaningful opportunities to honour the legacy, achievements, and leadership of Black Canadians who have shaped Alberta and Canada. Their resilience and cultural influence continue to strengthen communities, inspire the next generation, and foster lasting solidarity across the Tri-Municipal region.
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Are We Teaching Kids What Inclusion Really Means?
It is easy to assume that children naturally know how to include others.
But the truth is, many grow up without ever being shown what real inclusion looks like, and who gets left out as a result.
Why Youth Leadership Matters
Explore how youth leadership drives personal growth, strengthens communities, and inspires transformative change across Canada and beyond.
Why Youth Leadership Matters
In every young person lies the potential to lead—not just in their personal lives but in their communities and even on a global scale. Leadership isn’t reserved for adults or those in positions of power; it starts with a single decision to inspire, create change, and make an impact.
For African and Black youth, leadership also means embracing cultural identity, breaking barriers, and challenging stereotypes. It’s about shaping a future where their voices are heard, celebrated, and central to change. Leadership is transformative. It builds confidence, hones communication, and develops problem-solving skills. These qualities don’t just shape careers—they shape lives.
As parents and community members, encouraging our kids to step into leadership roles might be the greatest gift we can give them.
Empowering Personal Growth: The Leadership Journey
Imagine a young person discovering their voice, standing before their peers, and sharing a vision that sparks action. For Black youth in Canada, leadership means navigating unique challenges—from systemic inequities to underrepresentation—while building confidence and resilience.
Youth leadership programs like Africentric Arts’ iLead equip young people with essential skills like problem-solving, communication, and collaboration. These abilities don’t just open doors—they transform lives, giving youth the power to overcome barriers and achieve greatness.
How Youth Leaders Address Key Issues in Canada
BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) youth are leading the charge in addressing systemic challenges, creating inclusive communities, and fostering impactful change across Canada. Their leadership spans a variety of critical areas:
Environmental Advocacy and Climate Action
BIPOC youth are at the forefront of environmental justice initiatives, tackling the disproportionate impact of climate change on marginalized communities. Programs like the Black Environmental Initiative promote sustainable practices and create career opportunities for Black youth in the environmental sector, empowering them to lead within their communities.
Mental Health and Wellness
Mental health disparities continue to affect marginalized communities, but BIPOC youth are breaking the stigma through culturally sensitive initiatives. The Youth Advisory Council under the Jane Goodall Institute is one such program where young leaders drive self-directed projects that prioritize mental well-being and strengthen community connections.
Technology and Entrepreneurship
Empowering youth with modern skills is key to building economic equity. Programs like Tech Spark, Canada’s first technology and design school for BIPOC students, address the digital divide while offering entrepreneurship training and financial literacy. These initiatives equip young people with the tools to thrive in the tech-driven economy.
Arts and Cultural Preservation
Youth leaders are using art to preserve and celebrate cultural heritage while addressing pressing social issues. Organizations like Africentric Arts provide young creators with platforms to express their identities, inspiring pride and fostering unity within their communities.
Policy Advocacy and Legal Challenges
BIPOC youth are also holding institutions accountable for their actions. Recent youth-led climate lawsuits, such as the case in Ontario, showcase their commitment to creating a sustainable future. These efforts emphasize the role of youth as catalysts for policy change, ensuring a better tomorrow for all Canadians.
Social Justice and Equity
From advocating for anti-racism education to amplifying voices in inclusion and diversity initiatives, BIPOC youth are sparking national conversations. Their leadership in grassroots organizations and movements ensures that representation and equity remain at the forefront of Canada’s social progress.
Through these efforts, BIPOC youth in Canada are not just addressing current challenges—they are reshaping the future, creating spaces where every voice matters, and proving that leadership begins with those ready to take action.
Why Youth Leadership Programs Are Essential
Structured programs like Africentric Arts’ iLead Youth Leadership Program provide youth with the mentorship, skills, and community support needed to thrive. They teach young people that their voice matters and that they have the tools to create real, lasting change. These programs teach young people that their voice matters and that they have the tools to create real, lasting change.
Through programs like iLead, youth:
Advocate for themselves and their communities.
Address systemic challenges with innovative solutions.
Celebrate their identity while working toward a more inclusive future.
By participating in leadership programs, youth learn to foster meaningful relationships, tackle local issues like food insecurity or mental health awareness, and take their leadership beyond borders.
Join the Movement: Build a Better Future
Leadership isn’t just about leading others; it’s about leading oneself toward a better future. By embracing leadership, youth become the catalysts for personal success, social progress, and global impact.
For African and Black youth in Canada, leadership isn’t just about the present—it’s about reshaping the future. Whether it’s addressing systemic issues, empowering peers, or creating global change, the potential for youth leadership is limitless.
Parents, guardians, and educators: now is the time to encourage the young people in your life to engage in leadership programs and activities. These initiatives are not just investments in their future; they are investments in stronger communities and a better world.
The world is waiting for the leader within you—or within the young people in your life.
Discovering Hidden Talents: Africentric Arts Summer Camp
This July, Africentric Arts hosted a transformative summer camp in Stony Plain, offering children aged 4 to 12 a unique experience of creativity, self-discovery, and fun. From djembe drumming to drama and arts and crafts, campers uncovered hidden talents and made lasting memories while breaking away from digital distractions and learning the value of community service.
This July, Africentric Arts hosted a transformative summer camp in Stony Plain, bringing together children aged 4 to 12 for an unforgettable experience of creativity, self-discovery, and fun. Over two weeks, campers explored a diverse range of activities that helped them uncover hidden talents and build essential life skills, all while making new friends and creating lasting memories.
Unleashing Hidden Talents
From the moment the camp began, it was clear that this would be no ordinary summer experience. On the first day, we asked the children about their talents. Surprisingly, only a handful could confidently share what they were good at. This observation highlighted a growing concern in today’s digital age—children are gaining digital skills but losing touch with the fundamental building blocks of talent exploration and development.
At Africentric Arts Summer Camp, we aimed to address this gap. Through hands-on experiences in djembe drumming, piano playing, drama, debates, and arts and crafts, the children discovered new passions and honed their abilities. Each day was packed with activities designed to engage their minds and ignite their creativity.
Breaking Away from Digital Distractions
One of the most refreshing aspects of the camp was the natural shift away from electronic devices. Despite no strict rules about screen time, the children were so engrossed in the activities that they rarely thought about their gadgets. From dodgeball and soccer to team-building exercises and debates, the campers were always on the move, learning and playing in a supportive and energetic environment.
Elizabeth, a volunteer camp coordinator, noted, “The kids were so ecstatic about debates, musical performances, and playing together that they didn’t even think about their devices.” This break from digital distractions allowed the children to immerse themselves fully in the camp’s offerings and reconnect with the joy of hands-on learning and social interaction.
Fostering Identity and Community Service
A key component of our camp was helping children understand their identity and the importance of community service. Through arts and crafts sessions focused on self-discovery, campers learned about their strengths and how they could use their talents to serve others. We incorporated stories from the Bible, like the Good Samaritan and David and Goliath, to teach values and inspire the children to make a difference in their communities.
Pastor Hildah Logun of the Redeem Christian Church of God Wonderland Parish in Stony Plain emphasized, “We have to show kids why it’s necessary to serve others and the invaluable rewards that come with it.” These lessons resonated deeply with the children, who began to see themselves as capable of contributing positively to the world around them.
A Grand Finale
The camp session culminated in a talent show that showcased the incredible progress the children had made. Parents watched in awe as their children performed in front of an audience, displaying newfound confidence and skills. The joy and pride on the faces of both the children and their parents were truly heartwarming.
One mother shared, “My son came home every day talking about his friends and singing the songs they learned. He couldn’t wait to get dressed and attend camp each morning.” Such testimonials are a testament to the camp’s impact on the children’s lives.
Looking Ahead
With the success of our July session, we are eagerly looking forward to the next camp session from August 5th to 9th, which promises even more excitement and growth for our young participants. Additionally, we are gearing up for our fall classes, which will offer theatre, djembe drumming, dance, piano and singing lessons, and a leadership course for middle and high school students.
Africentric Arts continues to be a beacon of creativity and cultural education, empowering children and youth to discover their talents, embrace their identities, and serve their communities. We invite you to join us on this incredible journey of growth and learning.
For more information about our upcoming programs and to register, please visit our website or contact us at 647-694-4493.
Stay tuned for more updates and stories from Africentric Arts!
About Africentric Arts
Africentric Arts is a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering children and youth through creative arts activities that reflect African culture. Founded in Toronto in August 2017, Africentric Arts provides a platform for creative expression, enabling children and youth to develop talents and gain meaningful skills for life.
Are You Ready to Boost Your Child's Self-Confidence?
Helping kids feel confident is so important. When children believe in themselves, it helps them do better in school, build friendships easily, and handle tough situations with ease. Confidence is like a magic key, it opens doors to many great things in life.
Helping kids feel confident is so important. When children believe in themselves, it helps them do better in school, build friendships easily, and handle tough situations with ease. Confidence is like a magic key, it opens doors to many great things in life.
Why Confidence Matters
Think of confidence as a secret power. With it, kids can communicate openly, share their thoughts, and make friends easily. It serves as a protective shield, enabling them to face challenges and recover from setbacks.
Parents, Your Support Makes a Difference
Parents, you have a unique power to boost your child's confidence! simple words such as "You've got this!" or "I'm so proud of you!" can make a big difference. Recognize your child's strengths and cheer them on. Your encouragement reinforces their self-belief. Observe your child closely—their interests, talents, and unique traits. By acknowledging and celebrating these qualities, you’re sending a powerful message: "I see you. I value you. And I believe in you." This positive reinforcement cements their self-worth and fosters confidence. Engage with your child in their activities. Attend their events, listen to their experiences, and praise their accomplishments. Your active involvement not only boosts their confidence but also strengthens your bond with them.
Join Us at the Africentric Fashion Show
Check out our Fashion Show highlighted in Diversity Magazine: Kids Christmas Fashion Show in Edmonton.
Experience our Africentric Fashion Show, a platform for kids to showcase their talents and connect with their heritage. It's a fun celebration, affirming each child's uniqueness and importance.
Boosting kids' confidence is a journey of nurturing belief in themselves. With consistent support and encouragement, we can guide our children towards becoming confident and content individuals.
Join Africentric Arts today! Enjoy exclusive opportunities, showcase your artistic talents or business, and connect with a dynamic community. Become a member now: Join Africentric Arts.
Three Simple Ways to Introduce Culture to Your Child
Ever wondered how to bridge the gap between your heritage and your child's upbringing? Dive into our latest blog where we unveil three effortless ways to seamlessly weave culture into your child's daily life.
Our identity is a blend of what shapes us and the choices we make. Central to this identity are the cultures and traditions we inherit and embrace. Culture isn't just rituals or practices—it's a connection to a community, a foundation that enriches our mental, physical, and social lives.
Modern times often see global influences challenging traditional norms. For instance, second-generation children might struggle to grasp their parents' native language or traditions. Parents, especially those balancing work and home, might find it a task to bridge this gap. However, with recent changes like the COVID-19 pandemic leading to more family time, it's an opportunity to weave culture into daily routines
Language
Language is more than words—it's a connection. If you're a parent whose primary language differs from your child's, introducing your native tongue can be a bonding experience. Start with daily phrases and encourage your child to respond in kind. It might feel unfamiliar initially, but repetition and context, like games or daily tasks, can make learning fun and relatable. Displaying idioms or family names and their meanings can serve as daily reminders.Food
Food
Dishes tell tales of their own. They carry histories, traditions, and memories. Cooking traditional meals not only offers a taste of home but also becomes a sensory experience for children. Platforms like YouTube offer tutorials for even the most intricate recipes. Involve your child in the cooking process, and while you're at it, introduce them to the names of ingredients in your native language. Sharing these dishes can also be an opportunity to discuss the cultural significance of communal eating.
Storytelling
Stories, whether in books, songs, or dances, are bridges to the past. They carry with them lessons, histories, and values. Dive into tales from your culture—be it legends, religious stories, or folktales. Engage your child with performances, art projects, or even simple activities like face painting. For instance, stories like those of Anansi offer lessons wrapped in entertainment.
Introducing culture to children isn't just about teaching—it's about sharing, bonding, and creating lasting memories.
Subscribe to Africentric arts email list to learn about our projects and activities and enroll your child in one of our many cultural programs.